Shiba Inu Vs. Corgi Breed Comparison, Similarities & Differences

From a far, you may argue that Shiba Inus and Corgis look alike; however, these two breeds are as different as day and night.

Shiba Inus and Corgi differ a lot, including in needs and personalities. So, they’re different despite looking somewhat alike.

That said, you may want to compare both breeds to determine which suits your lifestyle and the specifics you’re looking for in a dog.

This article covers the history of both breeds and will provide a breakdown of differences which often act as deciding factors for many.

Notably, we’ll be referring to the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, which is more popular compared to the Cardigan Welsh Corgi.

Shiba Inu Vs Corgi Comparison Chart

	Shiba Inu	Corgi (Pembroke Welsh)
Size	13 to 16 inches	10 to 13 inches
Weight	17 to 23 pounds	22 to 35 pounds
Lifespan	12 to 16 years	11 to 15 years
Category	Companion dogs	Companion dogs
Coat Type	Double coat	Double coat
Temperament	Reserved	Sociable and lovable
Exercise needs	60 minutes per day	45 minutes per day
Grooming needs	Heavy shedders, so lots of grooming	Heavy shedders, so lots of grooming

About Shiba Inus

There’s no doubt that Shiba Inus are among the most popular breeds of Japanese origin currently. This breed has gained more fame with the emergence of the Shiba Inu coin.

Shibas aren’t only famous in Japan but in other parts of the world, like the United States. Many people are becoming more obsessed with the breed as the years go by.

Shiba Inus are unique in their ways. For example, this breed has some funny ways of communicating with its owner, which often involves the “Shiba Scream.”

The Shiba Inu scream is a vocalized shriek produced by Shibas when they’re overly excited or feel threatened.

In addition, Shiba Inus have an alert and active temperament. Although they’re categorized under small dogs, Shibas aren’t your typical small dog.

Further, Shibas aren’t the type of dog that spends the entire day cuddling on your lap. They’re independent and often want to spend some time by themselves.

Generally, Shiba Inus are free-spirited and love to think by themselves and do what they think is right. They even ignore their owner when not in the mood.

Shiba Inus are naturally independent. Therefore, expect your Shiba Inus to show stubborn streaks now and then. While they’re independent, Shibas are so affectionate and loyal.

In addition, Shiba Inus are extra vigilant with their immediate surrounding. This breed is always watchful and cautious of any strangers. Although they don’t have the perfect body to offer protection, Shibas will alert you in case of any stranger or person they don’t know.

About Corgis (Pembroke Welsh)

The Corgi dog breed originally came from the countryside of Wales and dates as old as 1000 AD. The breeds was purposely bred for cattle herding.

This breed is believed to have descended from the Spitz family of dogs comprising Shiba Inus and Akita Inus, among other dog breeds of Japanese origin.

This breed is ranked 11^th based on Stanley Coren’s study of dog intelligence hierarchy. In addition, they are considered to be excellent working dogs.

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are naturally short and are also born with a short tail. However, the majority of Welsh Corgis have their tails docked when young.

This breed is sociable and lovable, as it loves to interact with people, including strangers. Also, Corgis are good with small children.

Shiba Inu Vs Corgi Comparison

This comparison is based on several aspects of both dogs, which include;

• Size
• Appearance
• Temperament
• Training
• Grooming

What’s more;

Shiba Inu Vs Corgi Size Comparison

Shiba Inus are somewhat bigger than Corgis. Shibas are 13 to 17 inches tall, while Corgis are between 10 to 12 inches tall.

While Shiba Inus lie in the medium category of dog size, Corgis are in the small dog category. Further, they’re popularly known for their short and thick legs.

Regarding weight, Shiba Inus weigh between 17 and 24 pounds while Corgis weigh between 22 and 35 pounds.

Seeing that Corgis have more weight than Shiba Inus, this shows that Corgis fill up a lot and have bigger bones compared to Shibas.

Shiba Inu vs. Corgi Appearance Comparison

Shiba Inu and Corgi have somewhat similar appearances; however, they’re different when you’re at a close range.

Shiba Inus have much fluffier fur compared to Corgis. Nevertheless, Corgis also have an incredibly thick double coat known for heavy shedding.

While Shiba Inu has pointed ears which are triangular in shape, Corgis have somewhat rounded ears without sharp ends.

Another identifiable difference between these breeds is that Shiba Inus have a fluffy and curly tail, while most Corgis have their tails docked, especially the Pembroke Welsh Corgis.

Both breeds are popularly available in two primary colors, which are red and white. In addition, they are available in other colors, such as black and tan, white, and red.

Shiba Inu Vs Corgi Temperament Comparison

Shiba Inus and Corgis have different temperaments. While Shibas are very independent and strong-willed, Corgis are friendly and lovable.

Shibas tend to be self-reliant and intelligent and, thus, hardly want to listen and follow commands. It has been commonly said that Shibas are cats in dog’s body.

Shiba Inus were originally bred for small game hunting, so they were active and always on the move. This directly reflects in the current Shibas, that are very stubborn and hardly calm down.

Nevertheless, Shiba Inus have some affection, especially for their favorite person. But they will always show affection when they feel like it.

In contrast to Shiba Inu, Corgis were bred purposely for herding cattle and other livestock. This makes them people pleasers. Corgis always want to accomplish tasks and please their owner.

Corgis love being the center of attention as they’re generally cheerful, trustful, loyal, and outgoing. Based on most Corgi owners are among the most loyal breeds of dogs.

Corgis have some independence and can be strong-willed at times, like Shiba Inus. That said, Corgis need a lot of exercise due to their high energy level.

Shiba Inu Vs. Corgi Training Comparison

Shiba Inus and Corgis have different training needs. Thankfully, both dogs have high intelligence, making it easier to train.

Although it’s possible to train these dogs, making them follow and adhere to your commands is another matter. Both breeds are independent and often do what they want when they want.

With this in mind, patience and consistency are the key to training both Corgis and Shiba Inus. Nevertheless, Corgis are relatively easier to train as they’re more sociable and eager to please.

Due to both breeds independent nature when they grow, you’re advised to start obedience training when they’re still puppies. It becomes harder to train them as they age.

Shiba Inu Vs. Corgi Grooming Comparison

When comparing Shiba Inus and Corgis, you can’t consider their grooming needs as they both have double coats.

Shiba Inus are heavy shedders, especially during the spring and fall, when they undergo a “blowing coat” process. During this period, Shibas lose their winter fur to remain lean as they prepare for the warm climate.

Therefore, you must brush your Shiba Inus regularly to prevent fur matting. Also, brushing prevents tumbleweeds of fur all over your house.

Thankfully, Shiba Inus are known for their self-grooming habits. This is a rarity among most dog breeds. Even so, ensure to bathe your Shiba Inus occasionally.

As for Corgis, they’re also heavy shedders and need to be brushed regularly. Twice or thrice a week is enough for Corgis.

In addition to brushing, consider regular baths and trimming your canines’ nails. Unlike Shiba Inus, Corgis don’t clean themselves, thus requiring frequent baths.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Shiba Inus and Corgis Get Along Together?

Shiba Inus and Corgis get along well and can live together. All you need to do is train and socialize them together.

If you’re planning to keep both breeds, prepare to handle extremely heavy shedding since they are both double-coated.

Which Dog Is Better Between a Corgi and A Shiba Inu?

Determining which breed is better, a Shiba Inu or a Corgi, depends on your dog’s requirements and preferences.

If you’re looking for a family dog, Corgis might be better since they are sociable and lovable. In addition, they have no problem interacting with strangers.

Further, Corgis are more accessible to train than Shiba Inus. They also relate well with kids and thus are best suited for family life.

Who Sheds More Corgi or Shiba Inu?

Corgis tend to shed a little more than Shiba Inus. However, I’d argue that both breeds are heavy shedders, especially during the coat-blowing season.

Coat blowing happens twice a year. Therefore, ensure you prepare with the necessary tools, like a shedding brush and a vacuum cleaner.

Can Shiba Inus and Corgis Live Together?

Shiba Inus and Corgis can live together without necessarily causing chaos. They need some prior training and socialization, though.

Thankfully, both breeds are suitable for family life and are good companions.

The Bottom Line: Shiba Inu Vs Corgi

Shiba Inus and Corgis share several features but have far more differences after keen observation.

Both breeds differ because Shiba Inus are more laid back and reserved, while Corgis are lovable and sociable.

Corgis are cuddlier and are among the best canine companions you can get. Further, they’re cheerful, affectionate, and fun creatures with low-riding, adorable bodies.

If you need an athletic dog that is more independent and that won’t bother you all the time with affection, Shiba Inus are a perfect choice.

Selecting between a Shiba Inu and a Corgi depends on your personal preferences and needs in a dog.